Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TransMetro but are still safe, reliable and comfortable. They're slower because they don't
have a dedicated lane, but safer than the old red buses because to board you need a mag-
netic rechargeable card (card and first ride free) which can only be obtained by showing
your passport or Guatemalan ID card. The rechargeable cards are available from special
booths, the most useful for travelers being in Zona 1's Plaza Barrios, the CentroNorte bus
terminal and the Zona 10 office on Avenida Reforma.
TRANSMETRO
In early 2007, in answer to growing concerns about traffic congestion and insecurity on urban buses, Guatemala
City inaugurated the
TransMetro
(
http://transmetro.muniguate.com)
system. TransMetro buses differ from regu-
lar old, red urban buses because they are prepaid (the driver carries no money, thus reducing the risk of robber-
ies), travel in their own lanes (not getting caught in traffic jams), only stop at designated stops and are new, com-
fortable and bright green.
There are currently two routes in operation - one connects Zona 1's Plaza Barrios with the CentraSur bus ter-
minal where the majority of buses for the Pacific coast now depart. The other runs south from Plaza Barrios
through Zonas 9 and 10. This route and its stops are marked on the Guatemala City map.
Crime has got so bad on Guate's regular red buses that travelers are advised not to use them, but TransMetro
buses are safe, fast and comfortable. All rides cost Q1, payable with a Q1 coin at the bus stop before boarding.
TAXI
Plenty of taxis cruise most parts of the city. Fares are negotiable; always establish your
destination and fare before getting in. Zona 1 to Zona 10, or vice-versa, costs around Q40
to Q60. If you want to phone for a taxi,
Taxi Amarillo Express
( 1766)
has metered cabs (fig-
ure on Q5 per km) that often work out cheaper than others, although true
capitaleños
(capital city residents) will tell you that taxi meters are all rigged and you get a better deal
bargaining.
